Ticks in the house, how to deal with them? - briefly
Regularly inspect pets, bedding, and floor spaces for attached «ticks» and remove them with fine‑tipped tweezers; promptly wash contaminated fabrics in hot water. Apply a registered acaricide to cracks, upholstery, and carpets, and maintain low indoor humidity to deter re‑infestation.
Ticks in the house, how to deal with them? - in detail
Ticks commonly enter homes through pets, outdoor clothing, or open doors and windows. Recognizing the risk enables prompt action.
Identification relies on visual inspection of skin, clothing, and bedding. Ticks appear as small, oval, dark‑brown or reddish insects, often enlarging after feeding. Early detection prevents disease transmission.
Prevention begins with sealing entry points. Install fine‑mesh screens on vents, repair cracks in walls and foundations, and keep doors closed when not in use. Maintain a tidy yard by trimming grass, removing leaf litter, and creating a barrier of wood chips or gravel between vegetation and the house foundation.
Pet management reduces indoor infestation. Treat animals with veterinarian‑recommended acaricides before allowing indoor access. Bathe pets regularly and inspect fur for attached ticks, removing any with fine‑tipped tweezers by grasping close to the skin and pulling steadily upward.
Environmental control inside the home includes:
- Vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture daily; discard vacuum bags promptly.
- Washing bedding, curtains, and pet bedding in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly.
- Applying EPA‑registered indoor acaricide sprays to cracks, baseboards, and hidden areas, following label instructions.
- Using diatomaceous earth on floor edges and under furniture as a non‑chemical barrier.
If infestation persists, consider professional pest‑control services. Certified technicians can apply residual treatments, conduct thorough inspections, and advise on long‑term management plans.
Monitoring continues after interventions. Set up sticky traps near potential entry zones and conduct monthly visual checks of pets and household members. Prompt removal of any found ticks, combined with sustained preventive measures, minimizes health risks and maintains a tick‑free indoor environment.